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Measuring moisture levels in boats is often done as part of a marine survey to assess the condition of the hull and deck of the vessel. Depending up on many factors moisture ingress in to fiber glass (FRP) structure could result in problems that are simply an unseen nuisance with no long term degradations, all the way to completely destroying major structures of the vessel via rot or delamination rendering them unsafe. Delamination of the skins from the core, core rot, or osmotic blisters are serious problems and may cost boat owners in potentially expensive repairs or may kill a sale when the potential buyers discover the issues during a survey.

So what are moisture meters?

Moisture meters come in three basic technology types: capacitance, probe, and free field effect, most meters are capacitance type.

Capacitance meters have two electrodes or probes, one that sends an AC voltage signal and another that receives it. Because water has a much higher dielectric constant or permittivity than air or fiberglass, the strength of the transmitted signal and the return received signal can be used to determine moisture content. This drop in the signal is then measured and displayed on the meter, either by an analog needle or digitally in an LCD window. Many meters give a saturation percentage or some other indication of how much water has ingression has occured.

Other meters work on resistance. These also have two pin probes for measuring moisture in wood or other materials a probe will penetrate; these work by resistance and use a DC voltage. Using the same methods above the DC signal is measured and the meter displays some type of indication of water content.

A third method, that does not use probes is called free-field effect, is slightly different in the fact that energy does not travel through the part. A favorite of mine is the REED 3808 unit pictured below. Instead of two electrodes (maybe we could call them an antenna) are next to each other in the meter, one is generally in the head of the instrument or in an external ball on a rod, this directs a signal into the laminate where it is redirected back by any moisture present. The second electrode (antenna) in the handle senses the energy return and makes calculations based upon the signal and then displays moisture content. In effect, the water acts as an media to re-radiate or reflect the RF signal. If you have ever seen wet sails on a sail boat effect the radar on the boat, this is the same principle.

So now we know a bit about how the technology of the meters work, how effective are they and how accurate are the results they give?

How Accurate Are Moisture Meters?

From my own personal experience using all three types of these meters over the years… the only thing I can say with confidence is take all moisture meter results with a grain of salt. I have found that multiple things can induce errors in the meters, these include temperature, bottom paint, glycols left behind during the boat building process, changes in core types in the vessel, among a laundry list of other issues. Experience using meters across many vessels is really the only way to have the ability to understand and use the results you encounter from these devices.

Although I just discounted moisture meters and their results I do believe they are necessary and a very good tool for evaluating a boat or yacht. When I use a moisture meter I do not rely upon the meters output level to determine if there is moisture ingress in the structure, I try to develop a baseline for the area I am working within and then determine if there are areas that read differentially to the overall area baseline. I have seen too many cases where bottom paint or fairing materials induce errors into the meter which could be misconstrued.

Percussive Testing

Most believe that the moisture percentage of a fully saturated solid (no core) fiberglass hull will have no more than 2.5% to 3.5% moisture. Most all meters are designed for wood, and thus sound an alarm at 20-25% moisture, which is a typical saturation point for most woods. Some meter manufactures provide a conversion table for the actual readings conversion to fiberglass (eg., 25% wood = 3% glass) hence there is no correlation between the percentage of moisture indicated by the meter and the actual amount of moisture in the laminate unless it is converted with a table, or via changing settings on the meter.

Moisture meters are great tools, but please DO NOT buy a moisture meter and think that you will understand the results and detect potential problems. To master the use of a moisture meter takes time and multiple comparable experiences on various vessels. Second any results should be used with percussive soundings, something many boaters don’t have the ear or experience for and again requires time and multiple comparable experiences to understand.

 

In closing, I believe moisture meters are a valuable tool that can be use to help determine the overall quality and health of a hull or deck laminate. Moisture meter data alone I believe is non-conclusive at best, the operator of the meter needs to both have experience with various laminate schedules and also have a lasting knowledge base of how the meter responds to various conditions and core materials. Moisture meter results should be used along with percussive testing, visual inspection, and other non destructive test methods to determine any trusted results. If results indicate more invasive testing such as drilling or core sampling should be accomplished.

Enjoy those moisture meters!

Ah, navigating the waters of marine surveys, are we? Learn the differences between pre purchase surveys and insurance surveys. Buckle up and grab your life jacket, folks, ’cause we’re diving deep into the world of boat inspections! Today, we’re unraveling the mysteries of pre-purchase marine surveys versus insurance surveys. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a cold one if you prefer), and let’s set sail on this educational voyage.

Pre-Purchase Marine Survey vs. Insurance Survey: Unveiling the Differences

In the vast ocean or great lakes of boat ownership, two types of surveys rule the waves: pre-purchase marine surveys and insurance surveys. While they might sound similar, these surveys serve different purposes and come with their own set of quirks. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Pre-Purchase Marine Survey: The Detective of the Boat World

What’s It All About?
Picture this: you’ve got your eye on a sleek vessel that has stolen your heart. Before you splash the cash, it’s time to call in the detectives of the seas – the marine surveyors. A pre-purchase marine survey is like a thorough health check-up for your potential new boat.
What Goes Down?
During a pre-purchase survey, a marine surveyor digs deep into every nook and cranny of the boat. From hull to propeller, they leave no seashell unturned. Their mission? To uncover any hidden damage, maintenance flaws or other skeletons lurking in the boat’s closets. Think of them as your boat’s personal Sherlock Holmes, minus the deerstalker hat.
Why You Need It?
Need some tough love here—skipping a pre-purchase survey is like blindfolding yourself and playing darts in the dark. This survey helps you make an informed decision about the boat’s condition, safety, and overall seaworthiness. Trust me, it’s worth every penny I have had buyers walk away from plenty of ‘visually’ great boats.

Insurance Survey: The Gatekeeper to Smooth Sailing

What’s It All About?
Now, let’s talk insurance surveys and learn the differences between pre purchase marine surveys and insurance surveys. These surveys are the gatekeepers that ensure your boat meets the safety standards set by your local government such as Transport Canada. No ifs, ands, or buts about it; if you want coverage, you’ll need to comply with the guidelines of Transport Canada, NFPA, and other local guidelines.
What’s It All About?
Insurance surveys focus on assessing the risk associated with insuring your boat. They look at the boat’s value, safety features, equipment, and overall condition. Think of it as crossing your T’s and dotting your I’s to keep your insurance company happy that your boat is safe for you to operate and complies with local code.
Why You Need It?
An insurance survey are not optional if your carrier demands one… If you want to boat under the protective wing of an insurance policy, you’ll need to show your boat is up to snuff. Plus, ensuring your boat meets all safety standards can save you a headache (and a hefty bill) down the line. Further an insurance survey covers you for any upgrades or spending you have made on your boat, upgrades will be documented and covered versus unknown by insurance if they are not. This is another key difference between pre purchase marine surveys and insurance surveys.

Guidelines Straight from the Experts’ Playbook

Now, to weave in a touch of outside guidance, let’s turn our gaze to the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) and the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS). These organizations are the lighthouses guiding surveyors through the murky waters of boat inspections. At Toronto Marine Surveyors, all of our surveyors are members of both the SAMS and IIMS, our surveys will be reconized both in Canada, USA and Europe.

SAMS Guidelines: Setting North America Gold Standard

SAMS prides itself on upholding the gold standard in marine surveys. Their guidelines are like the North Star for surveyors, ensuring they navigate the inspection process with precision and professionalism. From hull thickness measurements to engine tests, SAMS guidelines leave no room for doubt and provide continuous education to members.

IIMS Guidelines: The Overseers of Best Practices Worldwide

As for IIMS, they are the overseers of best practices in marine surveying worldwide. Their guidelines act as a compass, guiding surveyors through the complexities of boat inspections. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, IIMS ensures that every survey meets the highest standards. The IIMS also provides continued education and multiple written guides to surveyors.

In Conclusion: We’re All in the Same Boat

So, dear qualified captain… whether you’re eyeing your dream vessel or sailing through the insurance waters, remember this: pre-purchase marine surveys and insurance surveys are your trusty companions on your journey. They keep you safe, informed, and ready to conquer the waves with confidence because you know you are covered with the proper insurances.

Now, as the sun sets on our exploration of marine surveys, let’s raise a toast to good seamanship and wise boat ownership. Remember, we’re all in this boating thing together. Fair winds and following seas, my friends!

Thanks for getting on the board!

Skippers have embraced WA’s new safety equipment laws. 

Here are 5 top tips to remember: 

  1. Lifejackets are required to be carried at all times, including lakes and dams.
  2. You can choose between 2 red and 2 orange flares, or carry an EVDS.
  3. PLBs only need to be worn by one person on board.
  4. Unprotected waters are 400m from shore in the ocean, or when you’re in the Cambridge Gulf and Lake Argyle.
  5. VHF or HF marine radio is required when you’re more than 4 nautical miles from shore in the ocean.

New marine drug and alcohol laws 

What you need to know

Some of the new laws commenced in December targeting the unsafe operation of vessels and apply to all types of vessels including personal water craft, sailboats, dinghies and tenders. 

The staged implementation of the laws will continue this year and align penalties for being under the influence while on the water with the road laws in WA.

Boating facilities

Join the Shared Use Mooring System

Get casual, short-term access to moorings in some of the best boating locations in WA by applying to be part of the Shared Use Mooring System (SUMS),   

Use DoTDirect to pay the $105 annual fee to have authorised access to marked SUMS moorings for a maximum of four hours during daylight or overnight from 7 pm to 7 am. Special conditions apply.

Snap up a pen at Two Rocks

DoT is offering 10-metre pens for the cost of an 8-metre berth for a saving of nearly $1,400 for one year. An annual fee for an 8-metre pen is now $5,568; or $1,524 for a quarter.

Since we resumed operation of the Two Rocks Marina in late 2014 more than $20 million has been spent upgrading the facility where new modern floating jetties and upgraded services provide significantly improved vessel accommodation for penholders. 

The reduced costs will be attractive to owners of vessels under 8 metres in length who can find it hard to secure a pen because there is usually a limited number of small pens at most facilities.

To find out more contact 1300 863 308 | tworocksmarina@transport.wa.gov.au 

Lifejackets

Take the 30 Second Challenge today

The 30 Second Challenge requires participants to don a lifejacket, send a mock mayday call, remove an EPIRB from its bracket, and ready a flare.

At the recent World Drowning Conference in Perth, presenters and boaters Dr John Lippmann of CEO Diver Alert Network (pictured left), and Major General Professor John Pearn of National Medical Officer RLSSA (pictured right), encouraged all skippers to be proactive, to take the challenge and always wear a lifejacket when on the water.